What is Google My Business Video Verification

For many local businesses, getting found on Google starts with a verified Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). But in the last few years, more and more owners open their dashboard and discover something new: instead of a postcard or phone call, Google is asking for video verification.

That’s where confusion usually kicks in. What exactly is Google My Business video verification? What is Google trying to see in the video? And what happens if they get it wrong and reject it?

This guide breaks down how video verification works, why Google uses it, what businesses need to show, and how to record a video that gets approved the first time, all while staying compliant and protecting privacy.

Understanding Google My Business (Google Business Profile) Verification

Google Business Profile (GBP) is the modern version of what used to be called Google My Business. It’s the listing that shows in Google Maps and the local “3‑pack” when someone searches for things like “plumber near me” or “coffee shop in [city].”

Verification is Google’s way of confirming that:

• The business actually exists.
• It operates at the location shown (or in the service area listed).
• The person managing the profile is authorized to represent the business.

Without verification, a profile is limited or may not appear in local search results at all. With verification, the owner or manager can:

• Edit business information (hours, address, phone, website).
• Respond to reviews.
• Post updates, photos, and offers.
• Access insights about calls, direction requests, and views.

Historically, Google relied on postcards, phone calls, or (less commonly) email and instant verification. Now, especially for new or higher‑risk listings, Google is increasingly using video verification to fight spam and fake locations and to improve the trustworthiness of local search results.

What Video Verification Is And How It Works

Google My Business video verification is a process where the business owner (or authorized manager) records a short video “tour” of the business and uploads it through the Google Business Profile interface.

The key idea: the video acts as live proof that the business operates where it claims to, and that the person recording the video has genuine access and control.

Here’s how it works at a high level:

1. Google offers video verification as an option

When someone creates or claims a Google Business Profile, Google suggests one or more verification methods. If video verification is available, it’ll be shown as an option in the verification step.

2. The owner records a continuous video

Using a smartphone or other supported device, they record a single, unedited video that follows Google’s prompts: exterior, interior, tools, signage, and access to restricted areas, depending on the business type.

3. The video is uploaded for review

The video is uploaded via the Google Business Profile dashboard or mobile app and sent to Google’s review systems.

4. Automated checks + human review (when needed)

Google uses automated systems and, in some cases, human reviewers to assess whether the video:

• Matches the submitted address or service area.
• Shows a real, operational business.
• Demonstrates that the recorder has legitimate access.

5. Verification status is updated

If approved, the profile becomes verified, and features fully unlock. If rejected, the owner is typically prompted to try again, supply more evidence, or use a different method.

The crucial detail: the video must be continuous, not stitched together from clips. Google wants to see a natural, unbroken walkthrough that’s hard to fake or manipulate.

Why Google Uses Video Verification Instead Of Postcards Or Phone Calls

On the surface, postcards and phone calls seem simpler. But they’ve become increasingly easy to abuse.

There are three main reasons Google is shifting toward video verification:

Stronger anti‑spam protection

Fake listings, lead‑gen operations, and virtual offices have been a persistent problem in Google Maps. Postcards can be intercepted: VOIP lines can be set up anywhere. A well‑designed video request is harder to fake because the business must show:

• The real physical surroundings.
• Branded signage.
• Tools, equipment, or vehicles.
• Interior areas that only a legitimate operator would access.

Better proof of actual operations

A postcard confirms that someone can receive mail. It doesn’t prove the business is really operating there. Video, on the other hand, can show:

• Active workspaces and stock.
• Customers or service setups (with privacy safeguards).
• Real working conditions that match the category (e.g., dental equipment in a dental clinic).

More flexible for modern business models

Many legitimate businesses are home‑based or service‑area only (plumbers, cleaners, consultants). These often don’t have conventional signage or public storefronts. Video gives them another way to prove legitimacy without relying on a visible shop front.

In short, Google My Business video verification is about trust, accuracy, and abuse prevention, all of which matter directly for local SEO and the quality of what users see in Maps.

Eligibility And Requirements For Video Verification

Google doesn’t publicly list every scenario where it will or won’t offer video verification, but some clear patterns have emerged.

Basic Eligibility Criteria For Video Verification

A business is typically eligible for video verification when:

• It has created or claimed a new Google Business Profile that Google has flagged for additional proof.
• Other methods (postcard, phone, email) aren’t available or haven’t worked.

The business operates either:

• At a physical, customer‑facing location (storefront or office), or
• As a service‑area business visiting customers at their locations.

Video verification might be more likely if:

• The address is in a high‑risk category for spam (e.g., shared offices, co‑working spaces).
• The business category is commonly abused (e.g., locksmiths, garage door services, legal services, rehab facilities).
• There have been past changes to address or ownership on that profile.

If video verification isn’t shown as an option, Google may require a different method or additional support.

Technical Requirements: Devices, Length, And File Quality

Google’s guidelines can change, but in general, video verification should follow these technical rules:

• Device: A smartphone with the Google Maps or Google Business Profile app is ideal (Android or iOS). Recording via mobile browser may also be allowed, but the app is more reliable.
• Length: Aim for 1–3 minutes. Long enough to show everything, short enough to upload easily. Google may cap maximum size or length in specific regions.
• Orientation: Portrait or landscape is accepted, but landscape is usually easier to review.

Quality:

• Clear enough to read signs and recognize key details.
• Stable (avoid rapid movement or constant shaking).
• Adequate lighting (turn on interior lights: avoid shooting into direct sun).
• Continuity: One continuous shot, no cuts or edits.

Proof Of Business Existence And Operations

To pass verification, the video has to demonstrate that the business is real and active. That might include:

• Visible branding: exterior or interior signage, staff uniforms, logo on doors, windows, or interior walls.
• Tools and equipment: e.g., dental chairs, ovens, salon chairs, HVAC tools, computers, point‑of‑sale systems.
• Products or materials: stock on shelves, materials used for jobs, parts, or supplies.
• Work in progress: service area setups, packaging, preparation areas (without exposing private data).

For example, a bakery might show dough mixers, ovens, display cases, and labeled packaging. A plumbing company might show their van, tools, and storage area for parts.

Proof Of Location And Service Area

Google wants to confirm that the business operates where the listing says it does.

That means the video should include:

• Surroundings outside the building: nearby streets, recognizable landmarks, or neighboring businesses.
• The building itself: exterior facade, doorways, and entry points.
• Address or suite numbers, if visible on the building or mailbox.
• For service‑area or home‑based businesses, the video may show:
• The home exterior (without revealing house numbers too clearly on camera if that feels sensitive, though Google may still look for subtle cues).
• Work vehicle with signage that matches the business name.
• A workspace, garage, or office used to run the business.

Proof Of Management And Access

One of Google’s main goals is to confirm that the person managing the profile has legitimate control.

The video can help prove this by showing that the recorder can:

• Unlock and enter the premises.
• Access non‑public areas (staff areas, storage, back offices).
• Access business systems, such as:
• POS terminals.
• Booking systems.
• Admin computers.

This doesn’t mean passwords or sensitive data should be shown. But, for example, panning across to show a logged‑in scheduling system (with sensitive information blurred or out of focus) can support the idea that the person holds an internal role, not just random public access.

What Google Wants To See In Your Verification Video

Even though Google doesn’t publish a strict checklist, videos that get approved tend to have certain things in common.

At a high level, Google wants to see three things in a Google My Business video verification:

1. Real‑world context

The video should make it obvious that the business is where it says it is. Walking from the street or parking lot up to the entrance, then inside, gives a natural context that’s hard to fake.

2. Evidence that operations match the category

The interior should look like what customers would expect given the business type. For example:

• A dental clinic: reception area, treatment rooms, chairs, instruments.
• A restaurant: kitchen or prep area, dining space, bar, menu board.
• A law firm: reception, offices, meeting rooms, legal books, paperwork.

3. Signs of ownership or control

The person filming should obviously be able to:

• Access staff‑only or operational areas.
• Show workspaces and tools.
• Demonstrate some form of control over the location.

When planning what to include, it helps to think like a skeptical reviewer: if they’d never heard of this business, would the video convince them that it’s authentic and properly represented in Google Maps?

Step-By-Step: How To Complete Google My Business Video Verification

The actual workflow is relatively simple once the business knows what to show.

Planning Your Route Before You Record

Before hitting record, it’s smart to plan a rough route. A typical sequence looks like this:

1. Start outside the building, showing nearby streets or landmarks.
2. Move toward the front entrance, capturing signage and the door.
3. Enter the building and pan across the reception or main area.
4. Walk through key operational spaces: offices, treatment rooms, kitchen, workshop, storage, whatever proves the category.
5. Briefly show any special equipment, tools, or vehicles.
6. End near a workspace or system that only staff can access.

Walking the route once without filming can help avoid dead ends or awkward moments and keep the actual video clean and efficient.

Recording And Uploading Your Video From The Google Business Profile Interface

The exact interface can vary slightly by device and region, but the general process is:

1. Sign in to the Google account that manages the Google Business Profile.
2. In Google Search or Maps, find and select the business profile.
3. Click “Get verified” (or “Verify now” if prompted).
4. If video verification is available, select “Video recording” or “Video verification” as the method.
5. Follow the on‑screen instructions. Google will either:

• Ask to record directly in the app (live recording), or
• Allow uploading a pre‑recorded video from the device’s gallery.

6. Record the full video in one take following the pre‑planned route.
7. Confirm the video and tap Upload or Submit.

Stay connected to a strong Wi‑Fi or mobile data signal until the upload completes. Interrupting the upload can cause issues or force a restart.

What To Show Outside: Signage, Entrances, And Surroundings

When filming the exterior, aim to:

• Start with a wider shot that shows nearby streets or landmarks.
• Slowly move toward the building, making sure the address number and business sign (if present) are visible.
• Capture parking areas, vehicles, and any branded window or door graphics.

If signage is temporary (like a window decal or stand), try to get a steady, close‑up shot long enough that reviewers can read the name.

What To Show Inside: Workspace, Tools, And Real Operations

Inside the premises, the goal is to show that the place is genuinely set up to serve customers or clients.

The video should include:

• Reception or customer‑facing areas: seating, front desk, waiting area, menu boards, or display cases.
• Operational zones:
• Restaurants: kitchen, prep, or bar areas.
• Clinics: treatment rooms, equipment.
• Retail: shelves, stock, point‑of‑sale.
• Trades: tool storage, workbenches, materials.
• Any branded elements: wall logos, business cards, brochures, posters.

The video doesn’t need to show people’s faces or private details. If customers or staff appear briefly in the background, that’s generally fine, but it’s best not to focus directly on individuals for privacy reasons.

Special Instructions For Different Business Types

Not every business operates out of a neat corner store. Google My Business video verification can and should look different for different models.

Storefront And Hybrid Businesses: What To Include

Storefront businesses (retail, restaurants, salons, clinics, etc.) should focus on:

• Clear exterior shots: signage, entrance, nearby businesses.
• Reception or customer areas: waiting areas, displays, point‑of‑sale.
• Service or product areas: treatment rooms, dining areas, fitting rooms, service counters.
• Back‑of‑house where relevant: kitchens, storage, offices.

Hybrid businesses that both serve customers on‑site and visit them off‑site (e.g., a showroom plus mobile service) can also show:

• Branded service vehicles.
• Equipment loaded into vehicles or stored in a warehouse.

Service-Area And Home-Based Businesses: What To Include

Service‑area and home‑based businesses often worry they can’t pass video verification. They usually can: they just need to think differently about what to show.

Suitable elements may include:

• The home exterior and surroundings (without lingering too long on identifiable house numbers if privacy is a concern, though Google still needs context).
• A dedicated workspace: office, workshop, garage, or storage area where tools and materials are kept.
• Branded vehicles: vans, trucks, or cars with magnets or wraps showing the business name.
• Tools, materials, and paperwork clearly associated with the service (invoices, work orders, branded uniforms).

For example, a mobile dog groomer might show a van set up with grooming equipment, a storage room with supplies, and printed contracts or branded leaflets.

Multi-Location, Franchise, And Corporate-Owned Businesses

For franchises or companies with multiple locations, each individual location normally needs to be verified separately.

When recording for a specific location, the video should:

• Focus on that particular site’s exterior and interior.
• Show location‑specific signage (even if corporate branding is shared).
• Avoid mixing footage from multiple locations in one video.

Corporate marketing teams sometimes want to use polished promotional footage. That’s usually a mistake for verification. Google prefers a simple, authentic walkthrough taken on a phone at the specific location being verified.

Tips, Best Practices, And Common Mistakes To Avoid

A little preparation goes a long way with Google My Business video verification. Many rejections happen for avoidable reasons.

Best Practices For Clear, Trustworthy Verification Videos

Some practical tips:

• Clean and prepare key areas beforehand (entrance, reception, workspace).
• Turn on lights and open blinds/curtains so the video isn’t dark or grainy.
• Hold the phone steady with both hands: walk slowly.
• Narrate briefly if needed: a quiet voiceover like “This is the main entrance,” or “This is the reception area,” can help reviewers.
• Show the business name clearly on signage, printed material, or branded items.
• Follow a logical path from outside to inside so the sequence is easy to understand.
• Keep it honest: don’t stage fake signage or borrowed space. Google’s systems are getting better at spotting inconsistencies.

Common Reasons Google Rejects Verification Videos

Most rejections come down to one of a few core issues:

1. Insufficient proof of location

• The exterior isn’t shown, or surroundings are unclear.
• The building looks generic, with no contextual clues.

2. No visible link to the business name

• No signage, no branded materials, no logo anywhere.
• The name in the profile doesn’t match what’s shown on‑site.

3. Weak evidence of operations

• The space looks empty, unused, or staged.
• There are no tools, equipment, or materials connected to the category.

4. Poor video quality

• Extremely shaky footage.
• Too dark, blurry, or overexposed to see anything.
• Video cuts abruptly before showing enough detail.

5. Policy or privacy concerns

• Sensitive information is displayed too clearly.
• The content violates Google’s content policies.

Avoiding these pitfalls dramatically increases the odds of passing video verification on the first attempt.

What Happens After You Submit Your Video

Once a business has uploaded its video, the waiting begins, but it usually isn’t long.

Timeline, Review Process, And Status Messages

Typical timelines vary by region and workload, but many businesses see a decision within a few hours to a few days.

Behind the scenes, Google’s systems will:

• Process and store the video temporarily.
• Run automated checks for:
• Match with submitted address and map location.
• Category consistency (does the interior look like the declared category?).
• Signs of manipulation or reuse of content.
• Flag unusual or borderline cases for human review.

During this period, the business owner may see:

• “Verification in progress” – the video has been received and is under review.
• “Verified” – the review is complete, and the profile is now fully active.
• “Verification failed” or “Couldn’t verify this business” – the video didn’t meet requirements.

It’s worth checking the Google Business Profile dashboard and the associated email account regularly. If Google needs additional information or offers an alternative method, that’s where those prompts will appear.

How To Fix Problems Or A Rejected Video Verification

If Google rejects a video, it’s frustrating, but usually recoverable.

If Your Video Is Rejected: What To Change Before Retrying

When a video is rejected, Google rarely gives a very detailed explanation. But, the owner will typically see a message suggesting to try again or use another method.

Before re‑recording, it helps to:

1. Re‑read Google’s verification guidelines

Check for any updated instructions or region‑specific rules.

2. Review the original video critically

Ask:

• Does it clearly show the outside and surroundings?
• Is the business name visible anywhere?
• Is it obvious what kind of business it is from the video alone?

3. Add missing evidence

• Print a simple temporary sign with the business name and logo and display it near the entrance or reception if permanent signage isn’t ready.
• Gather branded materials (business cards, flyers, packaging) to show on camera.
• More clearly show tools, equipment, or workstations.

4. Improve stability and lighting

• Use both hands or a simple handheld stabilizer.
• Turn on all lights and avoid filming directly into bright windows.

After making these adjustments, record a fresh, continuous video and submit it again through the Google Business Profile interface.

When And How To Contact Google Support

If repeated attempts fail, or if video verification isn’t available but the business is legitimate, contacting Google Support may be necessary.

Typical options include:

• Using the “Contact us” link in the Google Business Profile Help Center.
• Requesting help via chat or email (when available) from within the GBP dashboard.
• Posting in the official Google Business Profile Help Community, where product experts and, at times, Google employees respond.

When reaching out, it helps to provide:

• The exact business name and address.
• The Google account email used for management.
• Screenshots of error messages or status screens.
• A short explanation of what’s been tried so far (including video attempts).

Support may then:

• Offer a different verification method (e.g., postcard, live video call).
• Request additional documentation.
• Manually review the case, in rare circumstances.

Privacy, Security, And Compliance Considerations

Video verification naturally raises questions about privacy and data protection. Businesses want to verify their profile without oversharing sensitive information.

Avoiding Sensitive Or Personally Identifiable Information

When recording, it’s important to minimize exposure of personal or confidential data:

• Avoid close‑ups of customer faces or private conversations.
• Don’t film computer screens, printed documents, or whiteboards that show:
• Customer names or contact details.
• Financial information.
• Medical or legal records.
• If such items are unavoidable in the frame, keep them blurred, distant, or briefly visible so details can’t be read.

It’s generally fine if a few people appear in the background or if generic, non‑identifiable paperwork is visible. The main concern is clear, readable personal or sensitive data.

Storing, Deleting, And Managing Your Verification Video

A few good practices around managing the verification video:

• Store a local copy (if policy allows) until verification is complete, in case Google requests a re‑upload.
• Once verification is successful and there’s no further need for the footage, consider securely deleting copies containing sensitive views of the premises.
• Limit who within the organization can access the raw video, especially if it shows high‑value assets, security features, or non‑public areas.

Google itself states that verification content is used to confirm eligibility and maintain the quality of Google Maps and local search. But, each business may have internal compliance rules (especially in healthcare, finance, or legal sectors) that dictate how such media is handled internally.

The goal is to strike a balance: show enough to prove legitimacy without revealing more than is necessary about customers, staff, or confidential operations.

Conclusion

Video verification has quickly moved from a rare edge case to a common part of claiming and securing a Google Business Profile. For many businesses, understanding it is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Handled well, a Google My Business video verification isn’t just a bureaucratic hurdle: it’s a chance to demonstrate authenticity in a way that postcards and phone calls never could.

How Video Verification Fits Into Your Overall Local SEO Strategy

From an SEO perspective, verification is the entry ticket to local visibility. Without it, even the best‑optimized website and strongest reviews won’t translate into full exposure in Google Maps and the local 3‑pack.

Video verification supports local SEO by:

• Unlocking full control of the Google Business Profile so owners can:
• Keep hours, categories, and attributes accurate.
• Add photos, products, and posts that improve engagement.
• Respond to reviews, which signals active management to both users and Google.
• Increasing trust signals: a carefully verified listing is less likely to be flagged as spam, suspended, or removed.
• Laying the groundwork for ongoing optimization: once verified, a business can focus on:
• Gathering and responding to customer reviews.
• Publishing regular posts and offers.
• Refining categories, services, and local landing pages.

Eventually, video verification is one step in a broader local SEO strategy, but it’s a foundational one. By understanding what Google needs to see, following best practices, and respecting privacy and security, businesses can turn a potentially confusing process into a straightforward path toward stronger local search visibility.

Need help with your business and online presence? Contact AGR Technology to see how we can help

Frequently Asked Questions about Google My Business Video Verification

What is Google My Business video verification and why does Google use it?

Google My Business video verification is a process where you record a continuous video tour of your business and upload it through your Google Business Profile. Google uses it to confirm the business is real, operates at the stated location, and that the person managing the profile has legitimate access and control.

How do I complete Google My Business video verification step by step?

Sign in to your Google Business Profile, choose “Get verified,” then select video verification if offered. Plan a route that shows the exterior, entrance, interior, tools, and staff-only areas. Record one continuous video on your phone, then upload it through the app or dashboard and wait for Google’s review.

What should I show in my Google My Business video verification to avoid rejection?

Show clear exterior surroundings, your entrance, and any visible address numbers or neighboring landmarks. Inside, include customer areas, tools, equipment, stock, and branded items like signs, business cards, or uniforms. Follow a logical path from outside to inside and ensure the video is well lit, steady, and unedited.

Can I verify my Google Business Profile without using video verification?

Sometimes. Google may offer other methods like postcard, phone, email, or live video call, depending on your business type, risk level, and location. If video verification isn’t available or fails repeatedly, you can contact Google Business Profile support to request an alternative verification method where eligible.

Does Google My Business video verification improve my local SEO rankings directly?

Video verification itself doesn’t boost rankings as a special factor; it simply gets your Google Business Profile fully verified and active. Once verified, you can optimize categories, photos, posts, and reviews. These ongoing activities, plus accurate business information, help improve visibility in Google Maps and the local search results over time.

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